I'll echo markb's sentiment in what an honour it is to be nominated, and be a part of BOTM.
I also see that markb has also wasted no time adding more photos, and a video. Good thing I just got one, so you can hear the 4 Swarbrick's.
Part 1 of the bike's story -
When I 1st decided to get another bike, after many years away, it was to be a 'commuter'. The CB 550 fit the requirements perfectly, and there were lots around. Figured I would make a couple of small changes
, to make it 'better'. After all it only needed new spokes, complete suspension rebuild, and I'm not sure what was last in the tank. The tear down consisted of 3 piles. Stuff to keep, rebuild, reuse / eBay / junk. Didn't keep much, next to nothing for eBay, lots for the scrap metal guy. Then I stopped, to decide what I wanted to rebuild. Stock, as an 'F' with some mild changes, cafe? The frame then sat on a WorkMate in my over size kitchen. As I wanted / needed a new tank, I quickly settled on the 76/77 750 F tank. It then joined the frame, while I looked for a seat tail. The Airtech SBK 750 won, along with their Thruxton fairing. At that point I started making the paper templetes for the gussets, seat & tank mounts. I had my picture, time to start bringing it to life. One of the things I don't do is weld. So after much discussion, the templetes, the frame & other bits went to Denis Curtis & Byron @ CMR for the frame changes. The biggest change I had planned was to add a SuperBike brace to the swingarm.
Just like the kitchen, but in steel. The tank has been move forward about 3/8", and the steering stops were later welded.
Super Bike brace added to the stock 550 arm. Arm was rebuilt by hondaman using an earlier, double grease nipple shaft. The threaded bungs for the rear sets have also been welded in place.
End Part 1